Dr. Thomas Hatch DDS and the team at Hatch Dental are pleased to provide professional and caring dental services to their patients from Reedsburg WI and the surrounding communities. Our dental services include: children's, cosmetic, family, implant, orthodontic, preventive, restorative and sedation dentistry.

Sunday, 24 June 2018

How to Fight Mouth Germs and Keep Your Smile Healthy

Below is an excerpt from an article found on Colgate.com that was written by Brenna StoneDoes the thought of mouth germs taking up residence on your teeth make you feel a little uncomfortable? It should! Masses of harmful microorganisms in the mouth can form plaque, the sticky substance that adheres to the teeth and gumline. Plaque can really harm your teeth and gums. When it isn't removed by regular brushing and flossing, it can lead to cavities and gum disease! Find out what you can do to reduce the amount of germs in your mouth.Regular ToothbrushingToothbrushing is a powerful tool for fighting germs. At the minimum, brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste; once after breakfast and once before going to bed. There is no harm in brushing your teeth more frequently. You can brush after meals to cut down on plaque formation and to freshen your breath. Spend a full two minutes gently brushing all surfaces of your teeth and your tongue. Use a toothpaste like Colgate Total that is designed to keep your mouth clean and to fight germs.Bacteria can flourish on your toothbrush as well. Change your toothbrush when it begins to look worn, according to American Dental Association. The American Dental Association recommends switching to a new brush about every three to four months. It is best to leave your bristles in the open air; a closed, moist environment can harbor more bacteria. Also, don't share brushes; it is possible to transfer mouth germs this way.Don't Forget to FlossDaily flossing is another important way to keep your mouth clean and healthy. Flossing can help to remove plaque from places that your toothbrush can't reach. Slide your floss in between the teeth. Also clean at the base of each tooth, removing plaque and food debris from underneath the gum line.Your Diet and Mouth GermsWhat you eat can also help to support a healthy smile. Eating lots of sugary and starchy foods will increase the amount of sugars that are available for bacteria in your mouth to thrive upon. Try cutting back on sweet treats and snacking on fresh fruits and veggies instead. When eating grains, be sure to choose whole grains.Take good care of your teeth with daily brushing and flossing. Eat a balanced diet and see your dentist for regular check-ups. Your dentist can check for signs of cavities and gum disease, the dental hygienist can also clean your teeth, removing the plaque and tartar (hardened dental plaque) that is on your teeth. With excellent oral hygiene, mouth germs don't stand a chance!To read the entire article visit Colgate.com.

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About Me

Dr.
Thomas Hatch is pleased to be able to offer beautiful smiles to his
neighbors in Reedsburg and the surrounding communities.

Dr. Hatch earned his dental degree from the Marquette University
School of Dentistry after earning his bachelor's degree from the
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Prior to entering private
practice, he served a rotating internship at the St. Paul Veterans
Administration Hospital where he received extensive oral surgery
training. He maintains professional membership in several
organizations, including the American Dental Association, Wisconsin
Dental Association, Sauk Juneau Adams Dental Society, Madison Dental
Progress Forum, Wisconsin Dental Study Club, Dental Organization for
Conscious Sedation, Academy of General Dentistry, Chicago Dental
Society, and Medical Ministries International. Dr. Hatch has taken
numerous postgraduate education courses, specifically selecting
courses focusing on restorative and cosmetic dentistry, as well as
orthodontics, root canals, oral surgery, dental implants, laser
dentistry, oral sedation, and children's dentistry. His commitment
to lifelong education ensures the highest level of care, both today
and tomorrow.

Dr. Hatch is an active participant in the community both home and
abroad, offering free dental clinics through Touched Twice and
providing annual dental care through Mission of Mercy. In 2009, he
traveled to Ecuador with his daughter and her dental school class,
providing care to five different communities. He also served as the
visiting general dentistry instructor. In his spare time, Dr. Hatch
enjoys spending time with his three daughters and their families,
gardening, fishing, hunting, golfing, cross-country skiing, playing
racquetball, and watching sports.